A field sobriety test is done to determine if someone is under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Unfortunately, the tests are not 100% accurate, which can lead to mistaken arrests and convictions.
Below is what you need to know about inaccurate field sobriety tests.
What kinds of field sobriety tests are there?
Different types of sobriety tests may be administered to you. The most common ones include:
- The horizontal gaze nystagmus (HGN) test
- The walk-and-turn test
- The one-leg turn test
The success of any field sobriety test partially depends on the law enforcement officer administering it. If they issue incorrect instructions or give them too fast, even a sober driver may fail the test. In addition, a driver’s pre-existing medical conditions can make the police draw wrong conclusions regarding their sobriety.
For instance, an individual with poor balance or a condition like asthma can fail to stand with one leg for the duration of time asked by the officer. Old age and obesity, too, can play a part in failing the test. Anxiety by the driver may cause them to perform poorly in the field tests, even if they are entirely sober.
How can you safeguard your legal rights?
A DUI conviction can negatively impact your life in many ways for years to come, so it is always important to fight the charges you are facing — especially when they’re unfair. The more you know about the strengths and weaknesses of the case against you, the better you can participate in your own defense.